RQF and NVQs: A Comparative Analysis and Addressing the Question of NVQ's Existence
Let's dive into the world of UK vocational education! From the '80s to the present, we've seen a transformation from NVQs to QCF and finally the RQF.
Kickstarting with NVQs
What exactly are NVQs? Fasten your seatbelts, as we're delving into the National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ). These are work-based awards that show you can complete a job to a certain standard, recognized across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland (SQVs in Scotland). There are eight levels in total, from basic work activities (Level 1) to senior management level (Level 8). Assessments happen through portfolios and observational sessions with an assessor.
Enter the QCF Era
Then, in 2008, along came the Qualification and Credit Framework (QCF). Unlike NVQs, QCF qualifications are based on a system of credits, where a credit usually takes about 10 hours to complete. Credits build up to create full qualifications, and you could earn Awards (1-12 credits), Certificates (13-36 credits) or Diplomas (over 37 credits). Thanks to this system, students could enjoy the benefits of being able to use the same credits across different units and have more flexibility, even while working full-time.
The Simplified RQF
The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) entered the scene in 2015. Similar to a library bookcase, the RQF lets you index qualifications based on their level and size. The higher the qualification, the greater the complexity and difficulty. Unlike the QCF, students can complete RQF qualifications at their own pace and awarding organizations can focus more on outcomes. The beauty of the RQF is that it helps people understand how qualifications relate to each other more easily.
Grab a Time Machine!
Here's a blast from the past—a brief history:
1980s: NVQs were set up to standardize training and development processes and make them industry-specific.
2008: QCF introduced a building-block approach to learning and increased mobility within careers and across industries.
2011: NVQs moved from the NQF to the QCF, allowing all qualifications (including academic) to share a common currency.
2014: The QCF was reviewed and found to focus too much on structure and not enough on validity.
2015: The transition from QCF to RQF began, providing students with the opportunity to study qualifications at their own pace.
2018: All QCF qualifications were fully transitioned to the RQF.
So, What's the Verdict?
If the cat's got your curiosity, the RQF is the way to go! It offers awarding organizations the freedom to develop, review, and improve qualifications, putting a greater emphasis on outcomes and innovation. Today, awarding organizations are still offering NVQs and QCF qualifications. However, in a few years, the RQF will be the talk of the town, and no one will question the validity of a certificated student, whether it was earned through NVQs, QCF, or RQF!
For more information on RQF qualifications from NCC Home Learning, click here. Check out our online courses here to see if we've got something that tickles your fancy.
All aboard the qualification time machine—there's no stopping progress!
Sources:- [1] Overview of RQF: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/742129/RQF_-_Overview_of_the_regulated_qualifications_framework.pdf- [2] Understanding RQF: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/understanding-the-regulated-qualifications-framework/understanding-the-regulated-qualifications-framework- [3] QCF: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/understanding-the-qualifications-and-credit-framework-2008-to-2018- [4] Points-based system: https://www.gov.uk/points-based-immigration-system/skilled-workers-designed-eu-talent-points-system
- Expand your education-and-self-development opportunities with online courses that cover coding and other subjects, as awarding organizations are continuously innovating, offering not only NVQs and QCF qualifications, but also RQF qualifications for greater flexibility and focus on outcomes.
- Delve into the exciting world of online courses, where you can learn coding or other topics at your own pace, thanks to the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), which allows you to easily understand how qualifications relate to each other and offers more flexibility for students.
